Performing great choral works in York since 1876
Welcome
Founded in 1876, York Musical Society is the city's longest-established choral society. For over 150 years we have brought together performers and audiences to share some of the greatest works in the choral repertoire, from well-loved classics to rarely performed gems that deserve a wider hearing.
We perform three or four concerts a year, often in the magnificent surroundings of York Minster. Our programmes are shaped by a love of choral music in all its variety and have featured works ranging from Handel's Messiah to Elgar, Bach and Brahms.
Beyond York, we enjoy a long and valued partnership with the Philharmonischer Chor Münster — a choir of similar size from York's German twin city. What began in 1993 as a gesture of reconciliation has grown into a warm and enduring friendship, with regular joint concerts in both York and Münster.
Upcoming concerts
Buy our book
Our new book “150 Years of Choral Singing” is now available. Click for more information.
From a winter performance of Handel's Messiah in December 1876 to a critically acclaimed Verdi Requiem at York Minster in 2025, the story of York Musical Society is one of passion, perseverance, and extraordinary music-making. Now, to mark this remarkable 150th anniversary, that story has been told in full for the first time.
Written by YMS Archivist Dr Rosemary Anderson, 150 Years of Choral Singing is a richly illustrated journey through a century and a half of choral life in one of England's most historic cities. Meet the colourful conductors who shaped the choir's character — from the famously irascible Sir Edward Bairstow, who was ultimately forced to resign after reducing singers to walking out of rehearsals, to the inspirational David Pipe, who steered the choir through a global pandemic and into its 150th year at the peak of its powers. Discover the moments that made history: singing German Requiem in York Minster during the First World War in defiance of anti-German sentiment; performing for the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in the Museum Gardens; and filling the Minster nave with 700 voices for an unforgettable Come and Sing Messiah.
Packed with archive photographs, historic concert programmes, and fascinating details drawn from newspaper reports and the YMS archive, this booklet is a treasure for music lovers, York history enthusiasts, and anyone who has ever sung with — or simply been moved by — this remarkable choir.
This limited edition is available now for just £5 plus postage & packaging. The cost of the design and printing of the booklet has been covered by a donation so the entire cover price will go towards supporting the future of YMS.
A5, 32 pages, full colour
